Local volunteer SOARing

Vicki Bowler Memorial Volunteer Award winner Joe Fiato Jr., of Weddington, poses here with his award with Vicki Bowler’s parents, Bob and Marilynn. Bob Bowler is the founder and director of Camp SOAR, and the award is named in honor of his daughter, who died in April after battling breast cancer. Photo courtesy Al Tinson

Camp SOAR is an athletic retreat for Special Olympics. This year’s event included more than 350 campers and more than 400 volunteers, offering individuals with physical and/or mental disabilities the opportunity to participate in various sports, such as volleyball, tennis, bocce ball, soccer, basketball, floor hockey and swimming. There isn’t an age limit at Camp SOAR.

Fiato, of Weddington, has volunteered at the camp for nine years, and was a group leader this year. He is a graduate of Charlotte Catholic High School.